More than 900 residents support plans for Swallownest store say Lidl

More than 200 comments, made up of support and objections, have been lodged on the application, from neighbours, and Aldi and Co-op bosses.

In 2020, Lidl applied to build a 1,880 sqm supermarket on land off Rotherham Road, as well as the demolition of the Christ Church building, and part of Swallownest Miners Welfare that is currently on the site.

The plans were rejected by Rotherham Council’s planning board in September 2020, on the basis of the “detrimental” impact the new store would have on businesses in the centre of Swallownest.

Lidl bosses launched a community consultation to hear residents’ views in February, and submitted a new application to Rotherham Council’s planning board.

Lidl bosses say that if approved, the new store will create up to 40 jobs, and will also provide new facilities for the nearby Swallownest Miners Welfare Club.

A spokesperson from Lidl GB said: “We are delighted that the local community are continuing to support our proposals for a new Lidl store in Swallownest and are grateful for the support of over 930 local residents who backed the plans during our pre-application consultation.

“If approved, the new supermarket would provide residents convenient access to Lidl’s high quality and affordable produce.

“Not only this, the plans would also deliver a multi-million pound investment and new jobs for the community which, following our second increase in hourly pay rates this year, will benefit from the highest pay rates in the industry.

“We would like to thank all those who have taken the opportunity to show their support so far, and we would encourage everyone to ensure their views are heard by Rotherham Council ahead of committee in due course.”

Objections have been raised on the grounds of air quality, effects on current shops in the area, road safety, increased congestion, and the proximity of the store to local schools.

The support letters welcome a greater choice of where to shop and the offer of cheaper food than surrounding stores, especially in light of the cost-of-living crisis.

Residents were also supportive of more jobs for the community and welcomed the plans to fund improvements to the Miners’ Welfare building and provide changing facilities.